Abstract: A method for re-registration between a robotic coordinate system and an image data set, said method comprising: providing an image data set that has been registered within a robotic coordinate system based upon an initial bone position within the robotic coordinate system; locating at least three conserved points fixed relative to the initial bone position prior to any detectable change in bone position from the initial bone position; relocating the same three conserved point after bone motion may have occurred to determine the locational change in the three conserved points; and re-register the image data set within the robotic coordinate system based on the locational changes.

Abstract: A method of tracking and compensating for bone motion when operating on bone (50) with surgical robotic arm (20), comprising: determining a spatial relationship between surgical robotic arm (20) and bone (50); tracking translational and rotational movements of bone (50) with a bone motion detector, which preferably comprises a passive mechanical arm (40); and updating the spatial relationship as bone (50) moves.

Abstract: An articulated surgical instrument for enhancing the performance of minimally invasive surgical procedures. The instrument has a high degree of dexterity, low friction, low inertia and good force reflection. A unique cable and pulley drive system operates to reduce friction and enhance force reflection. A unique wrist mechanism operates to enhance surgical dexterity compared to standard laparoscopic instruments. The system is optimized to reduce the number of actuators required and thus produce a fully functional articulated surgical instrument of minimum size.

Abstract: Methods, systems and apparatus for planning the position of a prosthesis in a long bone in orthopaedic surgical procedures, such as hip replacement surgery, knee replacement surgery, long bone osteotomies, and the like. A bone model is generated from a scanned image of a bone, a prosthesis model is selected from a library of prosthesis models and then a cavity model is formed based on the prosthesis model and/or the bone model. The cavity model may then be positioned over the bone model, either interactively by the surgeon or automatically through an algorithm based on clinical parameters, to determine a reasonable location for implantation of a prosthesis within the bone. The cavity model allows the surgeon to optimize placement of the implant within the bone, and it provides important clinical information to the surgeon, such as areas in which press fits are provided, extension areas for possible subsidence and access areas for allowing the surgeon to insert the implant into the cavity.

Abstract: Methods and systems for finish cutting of bone cavities rely on making a plurality of axial finish cuts along the cavity wall. Finish cuts are made using a rotary cutter, and a sufficient number of cuts are made to limit the radial height of cusps between adjacent cuts resulting from the arcuate shape of the cut profile. Cutting time is reduced by selectively terminating the axial lengths of the finish cuts in a manner which does not result in unacceptably high radial cusp heights between adjacent cuts.

Abstract: Computer implemented systems and methods for removing bone cement or other material to replace a bone prosthesis is provided. A computer aided method of replacing a bone prosthesis according to the present invention comprises the steps of: receiving as input image data of a bone; identifying bounding contours of material in the image data surrounding a first bone prosthesis for removal; and generating system contours from the bounding contours, the system contours specifying a cavity to be cut in the bone to accommodate a second bone prosthesis.